A unique awareness initiative was organized in Karnaphuli Upazila of Chattogram to mark National Rural Development Day 2026, aiming to enhance public awareness about rural development and strengthen citizens’ access to government services. On Monday (July 6), Karnaphuli Upazila Administration, in collaboration with the Upazila Rural Development Office, arranged a discussion meeting, a rally, and a tree sapling distribution program.
Although heavy rainfall forced organizers to modify parts of the schedule, the rally and sapling distribution were successfully held within the Upazila premises. The event was attended by government officials, representatives of cooperative societies, local community leaders, social workers, and journalists.
The discussion meeting was chaired by Karnaphuli Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Ridwanul Islam, while Upazila Rural Development Officer Mohammad Ishaq delivered the welcome speech and moderated the program.
In his keynote address, UNO Ridwanul Islam emphasized that rural development is not limited to infrastructure projects but also involves improving people’s quality of life, increasing public awareness, and ensuring that government services are accessible to everyone.
Addressing local residents, the newly appointed UNO said, “Visit the Upazila offices and learn what services each government department provides. See for yourselves whether we are here to serve the people or merely to enjoy our official positions.”
He further stated that the Upazila Administration is committed to reducing the gap between citizens and public services by ensuring transparency, accountability, and better service delivery. He also encouraged residents to report any difficulties they encounter while receiving government services.
Among the special guests were Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Md. Rakibul Islam, Upazila Fisheries Officer Abdul Alim, and Upazila Youth Development Officer Md. Jahan Uddin. The speakers highlighted the importance of strengthening the rural economy through agriculture, fisheries, livestock development, youth empowerment, self-employment opportunities, and environmental conservation.
Representatives from cooperative organizations, local social leaders, and members of the media also shared their views, stressing the need for greater public participation and stronger collaboration between government agencies and local communities to achieve sustainable rural development.
According to the organizers, this was the first official observance of National Rural Development Day in Karnaphuli Upazila. They expressed hope that the event would increase public awareness about rural development initiatives, encourage community participation, and strengthen people’s understanding of the government services available to them.
The program concluded with the distribution of fruit-bearing, timber, and medicinal tree saplings among participants. Local residents welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and beneficial, and expressed hope that similar public-oriented programs would continue in the future.
